Published on Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 3:55:05 PM
Four fires at Katherine’s waste facility in five weeks have prompted Katherine Town Council to remind residents not to put batteries in their wheelie bins.
Batteries can catch fire when crushed or damaged during rubbish collection or waste processing, putting workers at risk, damaging equipment and disrupting services.
Many everyday items contain batteries that can be easily overlooked when throwing them away, including broken toys, wireless earbuds and used vapes. Even a small battery can start a serious fire, so we need to keep batteries and battery-powered items out of wheelie bins.
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are a particular concern. They are commonly found in phones, laptops, power tools, portable chargers, e-bikes and e-scooters.
Residents can drop off household batteries, lithium-ion batteries and car batteries free of charge at the designated collection area at the Katherine Waste Management Facility, Lot 5043 Novis Quarry Road. Staff can help residents find the correct collection point.
Cover loose battery terminals with clear tape before dropping them off. Anyone with a swollen, leaking or damaged battery should contact Council for advice before bringing it in and speak to staff before placing it in a collection bin.
You can also drop off mobile phones and their batteries for recycling at the Council office and Katherine Public Library.
For advice about disposing of batteries or items with batteries inside them, contact Katherine Town Council on (08) 8972 5500 or visit www.katherine.nt.gov.au.
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